The Nikon F and Nikkormat Series
In 1959, Nikon released the revolutionary Nikon F, its first professional-level 35mm SLR camera. This fully mechanical workhorse became an instant classic and industry standard, used by photographers for decades. Throughout the 60s, Nikon built on this success with the Nikkormat series, aimed at amateur and enthusiast photographers.
Zoom Lenses and Underwater Photography
Nikon pioneered zoom lens technology in 1959 with the Nikkor Zoom 8.5-25cm. By the mid-60s, Nikon unveiled the Nikonos, the world’s first amphibious camera for underwater photography. The Nikonos let people explore an entirely new realm of photography and fueled interest in marine conservation.
Compact Cameras
In the late 60s, Nikon debuted a series of compact cameras, the Nikon EM and FE, making high-quality photography more accessible. These lightweight, user-friendly cameras were a hit with travelers and families, expanding Nikon’s appeal beyond professionals and serious hobbyists.
Through the 60s and 70s, Nikon’s burgeoning lineup of cutting-edge cameras and NIKKOR lenses established it as the preeminent brand for both amateur and professional photographers alike. By providing higher quality gear to broader range of users, Nikon was instrumental in popularizing 35mm film photography worldwide during this era. The company’s golden age had begun!
Nikon’s mid-century expansion into new camera types and lenses helped drive the spread of 35mm film photography. By catering to everyone from novices to professionals, Nikon made high-quality photography accessible to all. The company’s enthusiastic spirit of innovation opened up new creative possibilities for photographers around the globe.
The Introduction of the F-Mount Lens System
Nikon introduced the F-mount lens system in 1959, marking a pivotal moment in the company’s history and ushering in an era of unprecedented compatibility and customization. With the debut of the Nikon F camera, Nikon’s first SLR, photographers gained the ability to easily interchange lenses to suit their needs. This versatile system allowed for a wide range of focal lengths and apertures.
The F-mount is still used today, meaning you can use vintage lenses from the 1950s on your modern Nikon DSLR. How cool is that? The F-mount gave photographers freedom and flexibility that was unheard of at the time. Whether you wanted to capture sweeping landscapes, candid portraits, or macro details, there was a lens for the job.
Nikon’s dedication to the F-mount has allowed them to cultivate an enormous selection of over 300 lenses. From affordable primes to esoteric super telephotos, the lineup has something for everyone at every skill level. Budding photographers can start with an inexpensive 50mm f/1.8, while professionals have access to fast telephotos over $10,000.
The F-mount’s longevity and vast lens selection has helped establish Nikon as a leader for serious photographers. When you buy into the Nikon system, you know you’ll have a wealth of current and future lens options at your disposal. You also gain access to decades of used lenses that provide stunning results. The F-mount has endured because Nikon got it right the first time. They created a versatile, modular system that places few limits on creative potential.
Sixty years after its debut, the F-mount continues to inspire. Here’s to another sixty years of optical excellence and photographic freedom. The future looks bright!